Chennai, March 24 (IANS). As the dates for assembly elections in Tamil Nadu approach, election observers have recommended deployment of drones to intensify surveillance against cash-for-vote practices, especially in urban areas where surveillance remains a challenge.
The suggestion came to light during a review meeting led by the special observer, which brought together general and expenditure observers from major districts including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu and Kancheepuram.
Discussion focused on addressing enforcement deficiencies ahead of polling day. Officials said the practice of paying for such inducements is often higher in inaccessible areas such as narrow streets and densely populated areas, where traditional teams face challenges in maintaining continuous surveillance. These systemic barriers increase the likelihood of last-minute violations.
To address this problem, observers proposed the use of drone-based surveillance to provide aerial coverage and improve real-time monitoring of suspicious activities.
This technology is seen as a way to strengthen surveillance in hard-to-reach areas and act as a deterrent against illegal distribution.
There has been no official response yet from the Election Commission of India or the Chief Electoral Officer of the state regarding this proposal.
Sources have indicated that the feasibility of such surveillance measures is likely to be assessed before any decision is taken.
Tamil Nadu has been classified as an expenditure-sensitive state, due to which General and Expenditure Observers have been deployed in each constituency.
Since the implementation of the code of conduct, enforcement agencies have intensified investigations across the state. The air squad and static surveillance teams have so far seized cash and valuables worth about Rs 151 crore.
Amid efforts by authorities to further tighten surveillance in the final stages before voting, the proposed use of drones reflects the growing reliance on technology to prevent electoral malpractices and ensure strict compliance with election rules.
–IANS
SAK/AS